Polaria - Arctic Experience Centre & Aquarium
Polaria is an Arctic Experience Centre and the world’s northern most Aquarium located in the heart of Tromsø. The iconic building, inspired by ice floes pushed ashore by the Arctic Ocean, houses interactive exhibitions and aquarium habitats filled with life from the northern seas.

Exhibitions & Our Mission
Polaria’s mission is to communicate research from the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Through knowledge-based exhibitions developed in close collaboration with scientists from the Fram - High North Research Centre for Climate and the Environment, we present key insights into the ongoing research shaping our understanding of the north.

Our renewed interactive exhibitions invite visitors to explore the human-driven challenges facing the region. Guests can dive into an ocean of soundscapes, discover the unique and fragile Svalbard food-web, and reflect on how all life is interconnected and dependent on the balance of nature.

Seal Pool & Aquarium

Polaria is home to seven seals: three bearded seals, three harbour seals, and one ringed seal. They receive daily feeding and training sessions designed to stimulate them both mentally and physically. Although these sessions are part of their regular enrichment and not staged shows, visitors are warmly welcome to watch them every day at 10:30, 12:30, and 15:30.

Our aquarium exhibits species native to the Arctic marine environment, including cod, halibut, wolffish, king crab, jellyfish, and a variety of other fascinating creatures from the northern seas.

Panoramic Theatre

The Panoramic Theatre screens three films that highlight natural wonders from the high north. Visitors can experience the Northern Lights in the Tromsø region, soar above Svalbard’s glaciers and mountains, or get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at life at Polaria.

The Gift Shop

Polaria’s gift shop features a curated selection of local and Nordic high-quality products. Reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility, we collaborate only with suppliers who minimise their ecological footprint and focus on sustainable production.

New Expansion

Polaria has recently completed a major expansion that enhances both animal welfare and the guest experience. The new seal pool is three times larger than the former one and features expansive panoramic windows that views the surrounding mountains and the sea. The space is filled with natural daylight, and an outdoor balcony pool allows the seals to swim outside, bask in the midnight sun, and enjoy the snow during winter.

The expansion has also introduced several new venue spaces that open a wide range of possibilities for exclusive private events, tailored experiences, and unique corporate gatherings in an Arctic setting.

In addition, we now offer several bookable guest experiences. Visitors can join intimate seal encounters, take part in guided tours, or explore other immersive activities designed to bring them closer to Arctic nature and marine life.

Welcome to the new Polaria – an Arctic experience centre built to inspire, educate, and connect people with the north.

Opening hours
Polaria is open daily from 10:00 AM (10:00) – 5:00 PM (17:00)

24 December: open 10:00 AM (10:00) – 4:00 PM (16:00).
Feeding and training: every day at 10:30 AM (10:30), 12:30 PM (12:30) and 3:30 PM (15:30)

Facilities
- Recommended duration of visit: 1,5 - 2 hours
- Suitable for all ages and families
- Activity level: Very easy
- Wheelchair accessible
- Changing table and stroller accessible

Guided Tour of Polaria in Tromsø

By STIFTELSEN POLARIA

Available from: November, 2026 - October, 2027

Price From

Next available date: 13 Nov 2026

Location

STIFTELSEN POLARIA